Is the figure eight heads tall or nine? It can help to draw a stick man-style structure and then bulk out your figure with measured units. Draw this on your page and then use this as a unit of measurement with which to mark out all the other elements of the figure. Suitable for: longer poses of 15 minutes or moreĬhoose a dominant element of the body such as the head and measure it by holding out your pencil or charcoal stick and placing your thumb at the end of it. What you will learn: To be instinctive and to identify the essential elements of a pose quickly. Use the side of a stick of charcoal or pastel to indicate the gesture broadly on the page and then the end of the stick to refine it further if time allows.
Look at the model and try to pare them down to a series of essential gestures: the sweep of a leg, for example, or an arched back. Getting a complete likeness in a couple of minutes is near impossible so when you are faced with quicker poses, concentrate not on form and tone but gesture instead. If you are in a class with no structured teaching, here are three self-motivated exercises that you could try. Exercises for life drawing classesīe prepared to get stuck in quickly and make decisive marks – it is surprising how time flies, especially on two- or three-minute poses. Often there is no structured teaching in a life class, just a series of poses for you to try and capture, and a tutor walking around offering encouragement, pointers for improvement and areas to work upon. Most life classes will involve a nude model, unless specified – places such as Jake Spicer’s Draw Brighton put on themed sittings where the challenge is less anatomical and more focused on colour and drapery.Ĭheck class sizes before you begin and bear in mind that while large classes are jolly, they can result in less time with the tutor.
A professional life model should be comfortable at holding awkward short poses for a couple of minutes and less complicated poses for up to half an hour. Paper and drawing boards are often supplied, while drawing materials are occasionally provided. This varies from class to class, so check before attending. If you buy good quality pencils or charcoal, you are likely to be happier and more encouraged by the results. Remembering an eraser and a sharpener can often win you friends with forgetful fellow students.Īs ever, don’t scrimp on materials – cheap products are often a false economy. Consider bringing inks or watercolours to add suggestive washes. You might like to try working on a different scale or drawing on a toned paper. If you are a fairly confident sketcher, life class can be a chance to flex your artistic muscles and challenge yourself. Charcoal is popular though often very dusty and prone to snapping, so graphite pencils or pastels may be an easier option to begin. If you are new to drawing or returning after a break, choose a medium that you feel comfortable with. What should I take to a life drawing class? If in doubt, approach a local artist or art society and ask for recommendations. Browse the classified section of Artists & Illustrators magazine. Google “life drawing class” along with the name of your nearest town. Look at the programme of your nearest adult education centre or art college. Check the noticeboards in your local art shop and community centre. There are plenty of ways to find a convenient drawing class. The real benefits will only come over time, with regular attendance and focus.
You are not here to produce a masterpiece but rather the exercise your hand-eye co-ordination and improve your ability to create a convincing likeness quickly.Īnd much like going to the gym, you shouldn’t expect to get toned and lose a stone overnight. Life drawing classes are the artistic equivalent of going to the gym. What do you learn in a life drawing class? We've also included some exercises at the end to make your life drawing sessions even more valuable. If you're not sure what to expect from a life drawing class, we explain all in this beginner's guide to the practice. This guide to life drawing classes has everything you need to know, including some exercises to help you advance